Mental Health Week

Monday 08 October 2018

South Australians are being reminded to look after their mental health during Mental Health Week, an annual national event that aims to improve community awareness and interest in mental health and wellbeing.

Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said it was important that people of all ages set aside some time during Mental Health Week, between 7-13 October, to reflect on their mental health and wellbeing.

“Mental illness can strike anyone at any time, and currently more than four in 10 Australians experience some kind of mental illness during their lives.

“The theme of this year’s Mental Health Week is to ‘Mind Your Health’ and that mental health is just as important as your physical health.

“Mental Health Week provides an opportunity to raise awareness of mental illness and foster a greater awareness in the community about the range of health professionals and services available to help with information, treatment and support.

“Having Mental Health Week on our calendars might just provide people with the jolt they need to take action on their health.

“During Mental Health Week I would also encourage workplaces to sign up to the 5 Day Workplace Challenge developed by the Mental Health Coalition in partnership with Business SA. This describes five simple things a workplace can do to support mental health and wellbeing.

Minister Wade will join SA’s Chief Psychiatrist Dr John Brayley for lunch in Victoria Square on Monday, 8 October, at a public event hosted by the Mental Health Coalition of South Australia.

Dr Brayley said his Office and the Mental Health Commission were committed to improving the delivery of mental health services across SA.

“The Office of the Chief Psychiatrist is currently working with the SA Mental Health Commission to develop a new South Australian Mental Health Services Plan, which is expected to be completed in March 2019,” Dr Brayley said.

“Members of the community are invited to contribute to the development of the plan, which will describe the outcomes people should expect for high quality and innovative care from SA Government funded or operated services.

South Australians living in regional areas will also be able to take part in events during Mental Health Week, with a number of activities scheduled to take place in rural towns and cities.

Mental Health Coalition of SA Executive Director, Geoff Harris, said he was pleased the Coalition could once again provide grants worth between $500 and $1000 to community groups across country SA to host Mental Health Week events.

"Mental Health Week is a time to reflect on how important mental health is to our overall wellbeing, but this goes beyond just one week of the year and we need to consider our mental health every day,” Mr Harris said.

“When celebrating at Mental Health Week events we encourage everyone to take note of information on services and resources available that can help when they may be struggling."